Silver Monstrance, France, C. 1850, By Dejean, Silversmith

Sun-shaped monstrance made of silver and gilded silver, featuring repoussé, chiseled, and guilloché work.
The rectangular, pyramid-shaped base, which serves as a pedestal, is adorned with acanthus leaves at the bottom and rests on four legs decorated with foliage. The main faces feature, on the front, the Mystical Lamb reclining on a radiant background, and, on the reverse, the Trinitarian Triangle. The side faces are decorated with clusters of grapes.
The baluster-shaped shaft features an imposing knot adorned with cherub heads and domed cartouches decorated with grape clusters. It tapers at its center and rests on a corolla of finely chiseled lanceolate leaves.
The halo consists of gilded rays, embossed and cut out. In its lower section, a bouquet of wheat ears and grape clusters frames two cherub heads. At its center is a gilded silver lunette with beveled glass, adorned on the front with a cloud motif. It is surrounded by clouds and cherub heads executed in high relief. On the reverse, a hinged portico allows the compartment designed to hold the lunette to be opened. The entire piece is crowned with a Latin cross adorned with fleurs-de-lis.

This monstrance was crafted by the Parisian silversmith Dejean, as attested by the hallmark affixed to the piece. Active from 1846 to 1861, he is recognized as one of the leading specialists in religious goldsmithing of that period.

950/1000 silver. Minerva hallmarks.

Dimensions:

Height: 64.5 cm
Width: 35 cm
Base: 18 × 15.5 cm
Total weight: 1,126 g

The gilded silver lunule inside fits perfectly into its housing; its locking mechanism works flawlessly.
The only imperfections worth noting are a few tiny, barely visible chips on the edge of one of the lunule’s glass panes, as well as the absence of a hallmark on the lunule itself.

The monstrance is in perfect condition, with no repairs or damage, ready for use. Please note: the upper section, forming the sun, is assembled using a screw-fastening system. This design allows for easy disassembly, facilitating maintenance, cleaning, and any necessary restoration.

The original case is preserved and in good condition, showing only signs of wear consistent with its age.